Seasons of Love, the masterful song from Rent sings “Five thousand twenty-five thousand six hundred minute” to describe the value of a year in human life. It’s a moving song that to this day brings me to tears when I hear it.
It will be 2,628,000 minutes that I’ve owned KGAY. So as I reflect on five years of operating KGAY Palm Springs, it’s with a combination of nostalgia, pride and determination.
August 1 is the actual date that I took over from the previous owners who had tried – unsuccessfully – to build a non-profit model around radio and podcasting. I was brought on along with other community members to make it happen. After less than a year managing the station and being on the board of directors, me and our staff including John Taylor, Shann Carr and Chris Shebel walked out en masse just prior to Pride. We went to Streetbar to day drink and lick our wounds.
I continued to operate GayDesertGuide, as it had been my passion project prior to KGAY. Shann, John and I created the #ILoveGayPalmSprings podcast – over 100 episodes worth that we are finally uploading to YouTube this summer for posterity. Then, COVID struck. As the virus waned and lockdown came to an end, one of the owners with whom I had a good relationship offered the station to me for purchase. I took over August 1, 2021. A few years later, we leased a signal at 92.1 to expand our reach into the east valley.
In the ensuing years, I’ve successfully combined the entities and was able to purchase our former competitor, Channel Q, and move KGAY to that stronger signal at 103.1. Then, 106.5 FM became Sunny 106.5 at Christmastime.
So as we reach the five year mark today, I have an announcement: Starting Monday, we’ll bring back KMEE MeTV FM music at 92.1. That’s the format of Timeless and Memorable music from the 60s and 70s with a little bit of 50s and 80s thrown in for good measure. (I’m having my proverbial tubes tied and calling quits on birthing any more radio stations, I’ve promised myself!)
So five years on from the rebirth of KGAY, I’ve taken on another “project” by giving life to all the great oldies music of my youth. The format was popular when we had it on 103.1. So now, 92.1 MeTV FM will debut Monday morning when you wake up.
And while I still do a radio show each Saturday on Sunny 106.5, my “first born” is my favorite child. Yes, they are all pretty and I’m proud of each of our radio stations. But KGAY will remain my crowning achievement in life. It’s means so much to me that KGAY means so much to you. And with this platform, Gay Desert Guide, it’s been a great way to help promote our beautiful Coachella Valley and inform our LGBTQ+ community.
As always, I thank you for supporting all of our entities, whether as an advertisers, a non-profit partner or a patron. Here’s to many more years ahead!
Brad Fuhr, your K-Gay Desert Guide
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Dancing with the Stars Con 2026
The inaugural Dancing with the Stars Con 2026 brings the glitter and excitement of the ballroom to Acrisure Arena for the ultimate fan convention and live show from Friday–Sunday, July 31–August 2. Fans can enjoy live dance performances, interactive panels, and photo experiences featuring beloved pros and Mirrorball champions like Val Chmerkovskiy, Jenna Johnson, and Joey Graziadei. Legendary judges Carrie Ann Inaba and Bruno Tonioli are also scheduled to appear. The three-day celebration invites fans to immerse themselves in the world of the hit television series with Q&A sessions, exclusive merchandise, and unique exhibits. More info
Superfuzz Saturday Nights
Superfuzz Saturday Nights returns to CCBC Resort for an evening of poolside entertainment on Saturday, August 1 from 8 pm–12 am. The event features all-vinyl DJs spinning classic sets under the stars, surrounded by the venue’s iconic pool and resort atmosphere. Guests are invited to bring their friends, enjoy the good vibes, and grab a drink from the Runway Bar. Mark your calendar also for upcoming Superfuzz Saturdays: August 15 & 29. More info
Lesbian & Queer Women Tea Dance and Pool Party
The Lesbian & Queer Women Tea Dance and Pool Party brings a full day of community, music, and sun‑soaked celebration to Arrive Hotel on Sunday, August 2 at 3 pm. This lively gathering features high‑energy beats from DJ Ay‑Lex Song, inviting guests to dance, float, mingle, and cool off in the pool. It’s a welcoming space for queer women and friends to connect, splash, and share an unforgettable poolside experience. Bring your crew, bring your best energy, and dive into a celebration made for community joy. More info
Night Swim at Palm Springs Surf Club
Cool off under the desert stars at Night Swim, the ultimate after‑hours pool party happening every Saturday from 6–10 pm at The Palm Springs Surf Club. Dive into the Island Pool and Lazy River, sip cocktails at the Island Bar, and dance to a new DJ every week. It’s a high‑energy, 21+ event where the lights shimmer off the water and the beats keep the night alive. Bring your towel, your crew, and your best summer vibe — this is Palm Springs nightlife at its most refreshing. More info
MJ The Tribute
MJ The Tribute – A Tribute To Michael Jackson takes the stage at Agua Caliente Casino Cathedral City on Saturday, August 1 at 8 pm. This electrifying performance celebrates the music, movement, and showmanship of Michael Jackson through a professional live production. Experience signature choreography and iconic costumes while hearing timeless hits including “Billie Jean,” “Beat It,” and “Thriller.” More info
Taste of Summer / Rancho Mirage
Taste of Summer / Rancho Mirage is underway, running through August 16 — and now, the fun goes even further with the Passport Game. The annual program invites residents and visitors to explore specials, cool treats, and flavorful experiences while supporting restaurants and local nonprofits. Wristbands unlock exclusive offers throughout the season, and your official passport turns the whole adventure into a delicious scavenger hunt across thirty participating restaurants. Whether you’re competing with friends, planning weekly outings, or savoring a few standout stops, the Passport Game makes summer dining more playful, more social, and even more rewarding. More info
Modernism Week October Ticket Sales Open
Modernism Week October is just a couple months away — and tickets go on sale Saturday, August 1 at 12 pm. With more than 50 events running October 15–18, this year’s lineup is one of the most exciting yet, blending fan‑favorite tours with brand‑new experiences that spotlight midcentury architecture, design, dining, and nightlife across Palm Springs. Expect curated dinners, nighttime socials, exclusive home tours, immersive performances, and even a first‑ever Modernism Week–produced excursion to the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. Many events are free or low‑cost, and the most popular tours sell out fast. More info
Jake Owen
Country music superstar Jake Owen a night of country music to The Show at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa on Friday, July 31 at 8 pm. The chart-topping artist and ACM award winner takes the stage is known for his laid-back style and signature hits like “Barefoot Blue Jean Night” and “Beachin’.” Owen has achieved ten No. 1 singles and earned multiple gold and platinum records and amassed over 2.5 billion on-demand streams in the U.S. alone. More info
International Classical Concerts
The acclaimed Latsos Piano Duo headlines International Classical Concerts at the Palm Springs Plaza Theatre. This magical musical event takes place Sunday, August 2 from 7–10 pm. The husband and wife team will perform an eclectic program of piano duets, including works by Schubert, Mendelssohn, and Kapustin. The performance also features compositions by local resident Joe Giarrusso, performed by renowned cellist John Walz. Attendees will enjoy a sophisticated program that spans from famous fantasies to fiery and virtuosic sinfoniettas in a historic venue. More info
ALSO THIS WEEKEND
- Exotica Tribute to Dizzy Gillespie • Bandleader Skip Heller and his Voodoo 5 perform a tropical jazz tribute featuring the sultry vocals of Lena Marie Cardinale on Friday from 7–8:30 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs.
- Jessica Rosas Comedy Show • Comedian Jessica Rosas takes the stage for a 90-minute performance of sharp, sassy stand-up on Friday from 8–9:30 pm at Spotlight 29 Casino.
- Palm Springs Certified Farmers’ Market • This weekly market is indoors during the summer season to offer a climate-controlled environment for local shoppers, bringing together regional vendors to celebrate fresh food and local products on Saturday from 8 am–1 pm at Palm Springs Pavilion.
- Welcoming Yoga at The Center • Facilitator Marci Stonehedge leads this non-intimidating, slow basic practice designed to increase circulation and improve flexibility. Open to all skill levels, the non-judgmental class focuses on gentle stress for connective tissues on Saturday from 4–5:15 pm at The LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert.
- Annual Back-to-School Backpack Drive & Resource Fair • The City of Palm Springs Department of Parks & Recreation helps students prepare for a successful school year with this free community event. Registered attendees receive free backpacks, supplies, resource fair access, swim center passes, and limited haircuts on Saturday from 11 am–3 pm at Palm Springs Leisure Center.
- Kings of Chaos • “Rock’s Greatest Supergroup” performs a live musical set during this special engagement at the Show in Rancho Mirage on Saturday from 8–10:30 pm. Featuring Richie Sambora (Bon Jovi), Kevin Cronin (REO Speedwagon), Matt Sorum (Guns ‘N’ Roses), and more.
- Dance Ranch / Country Dance Saturdays • This country western dance event features a line dance lesson with Andrew Jimenez and a request hour. Serving the LGBTQ+ community, the group hosts a night of waltz, two-step, and swing dancing for all levels on Saturday from 6–9:30 pm at Step by Step Dance Studio.
- The Rack Pack: Weekly Men’s (Chinese) Mahjong Meet-Up • Men of all experience levels are invited to join this relaxed weekly gathering for friendly games of Chinese Mahjong on Sunday from 4–6 pm. The meet-up emphasizes social connection and good vibes, with participants encouraged to enjoy food and drinks at ACE Hotel & Swim Club.
- A Queer Arcana: Art, Magic, and Spirit • This exhibition features an intergenerational group of artists exploring how magic and esoteric knowledge have shaped queer culture. Drawing on the mystical meaning of “arcana,” the works highlight alternative spiritual practices as paths of survival and liberation within the LGBTQ+ community. Thursday–Sunday at Palm Springs Art Museum through October 18.
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SAY KGAY to Save on Rivalry Merch
Ride the Heated Rivalry wave with a fresh batch of themed T‑shirts now available through the Pride Store. Some designs rep your favorite fictional teams from the show, while others turn up the temperature with bolder, more provocative takes. Pick your style, show your fandom, and save 10% storewide at checkout with promo code SAYKGAY – Shop Now
Summer 2026 Visitor Map & Guide – FREE!
Check out the Summer 2026 edition of the K‑Gay Desert Guide Visitor Map & Guide! To help you find everything you need as a visitor or local, we feature the top places for Food & Drink, Nightlife, Shopping, Attractions, Gay Resorts with passes, Dispensaries, and other services, all curated to make exploring the valley even easier. Look for the latest edition at businesses and newsstands around town, as well as at hotels, visitor centers, and participating sponsors, or view it online.
Click below to sign up for our Gay Desert Guide Oasis Insiders Newsletter to get our Weekly Blog, Top 3 Events for the weekend, Hot Deals and Cool Events all delivered to your inbox every Friday!
- Dancing with the Stars Con 2026
July 31–Aug 2 at Acrisure Arena - Superfuzz Saturday Nights at CCBC
August 1, 15 & 19 from 8 pm–Midnight - Hot Spot Bingo with Deven & Ned
Mondays at 7 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs - CVRep 2026/2027 Season
Sat. Aug 1 – Individual Ticket Sales Open - Clear the Shelters
Sat. & Sun. Aug 15 & 16 from 10 am–5 pm at the Palm Springs Animal Shelter - Out on the Mountain
Fri. Aug 21 from 6 pm–midnight at Six Flags Magic Mountain
KGAY 103.1 FM
The KGAY 103.1 Retro Lunch airs Monday through Friday from noon–1 pm, with DJ Galaxy (Vincent Corrales) and DJ Eric Ornelas playing an hour of their nonstop throwback mixes. On Sundays, we put all five hours together for the Retro Sunday Brunch from 11 am–4 pm. Perfect party music! The KGAY Sunday Tea Dance with MODGIRL airs every Sunday from 4–6 pm (right after the Retro Brunch). All our DJs took honors in the Best of Coachella Valley this year! Listen to KGAY 103.1 online
WIN TICKETS to Backstreet Boys at Sphere Las Vegas
See the Backstreet Boys like never before— from KGAY 103.1 and Sunny 106.5! The Backstreet Boys have expanded their Into The Millennium residency at Sphere in Las Vegas, and both stations are giving you the chance to score a pair of tickets for Thursday, August 6. It’s the perfect excuse for a summer road trip, a night of iconic hits, and an unforgettable Vegas experience. Turn up your favorite BSB track, and get ready to shout “EVERYBODY!” if you’re one of our lucky winners. Enter to WIN on the KGAY Contest Page and Sunny Contest Page.
WIN TICKETS to Out on the Mountain
KGAY 103.1 wants to give you the chance to experience Out on the Mountain — the Ultimate Pride Party at Six Flags Magic Mountain on Friday, August 21. This private, all‑ages LGBTQ+ celebration packs the park with thrill rides, drag performances, dance parties, and a full night of community joy. It’s Pride… with roller coasters! Enter to WIN on the KGAY Contest Page
Sunny 106.5 FM
Take the sunshine indoors with the Sunny 106.5 Alexa skill — just tell Alexa to “enable Sunny Palm Springs Radio skill” and the brightest variety will be one voice command away at home or at work. Sunny 106.5 is the Coachella Valley’s new home for feel‑good hits from the ’90s, 2000s, and beyond, blending familiar favorites with local updates and weekday weather from Patrick Evans. Play Sunny 106.5 Online
Join the Sunny 106.5 Lucky Duck Club and unlock exclusive access to secret contests, special offers, and fun surprises all year long! Members get insider perks and first dibs on exciting station events — it’s free, easy, and full of rewards for Sunny listeners. 👉 Sign up now
- Coachella Valley Restaurant Openings: One More Bite Dumplings, Les Filles Expansion, and Palm Springs Food News
- Pride on the Page Celebrates Fifth Anniversary with Free LGBTQ+ Book Festival
- 5 Frozen Sweet Treats to Try This Summer in Greater Palm Springs
- The Powerful Wellness Benefits of Sunshine in the Coachella Valley
- Modernism Week October 2026 Unveils New Tours, Nightlife & Midcentury Experiences
Find out what’s happening on any given day by browsing our Gay Desert Guide Online Event Listing Calendar, and for the big picture, take a look at major upcoming events in our 2026 Coachella Valley Calendar of Events.
Listen to KGAY over the air, stream it [here], or listen on iHeart Radio with Alexa or Siri by saying “Play K-G-A-Y” John Taylor is on mornings 6–10 am and program director Chris Shebel is on afternoons. Our Retro Lunch with DJ Galaxy and DJ Eric Ornelas is heard on Sundays as the Retro Lunch & Sunday Brunch from 11 am–4 pm, followed by MODGIRL spinning the KGAY Sunday Tea Dance from 4–6 pm.
This Way Out, the award‑winning weekly LGBTQ radio program, airs every Sunday at 6:30 a.m. on KGAY 103.1 and is also available on‑demand via our streaming player under Menu>Streams>Podcasts. As the only internationally distributed LGBTQ radio show, it airs on about 200 community stations worldwide and delivers global queer news, reporting, interviews, and cultural features.
